This is a very incomplete list of memorable people we lost in 2021 who have had particular influence on the world of Black children. We’ve come to know these names because of the success they’ve reached in their careers and the powerful ways they shaped their voice and their talents to make a real difference in this world. They’ve touched so many of us! I’m grateful for them and the examples they leave me.

Incomplete list indeed! I know so many who have lost family and friends who had been tremendous influence because of the joyful and loving lives they shared. Blessings on their memories and on the love they’ve left behind.

2021 was certainly a year of loss. What’s it preparing us for? Let’s hold on and enjoy the ride!

Quote Sources

Virgil Abloh https://www.silverkris.com/virgil-abloh-louis-vuitton-off-white-london-fashion-week/
Greg Tate https://lareviewofbooks.org/article/fly-as-hell-an-interview-with-greg-tate/
bell hooks https://bombmagazine.org/articles/bell-hooks/
Arnold Adoff https://poetryadvocates.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/arnold_adoff_pacya1.pdf
Eloise Greenfield https://www.leeandlow.com/books/when-the-horses-ride-by/interviews
Jerry Pinkney https://www.jerrypinkneystudio.com/frameset.html
Floyd Cooper https://www.mackincommunity.com/2018/02/19/a-little-erasing-a-guest-post-by-illustrator-floyd-cooper/
Bernette Ford https://thebrownbookshelf.com/28days/bernette-ford/